Kir2.4 surface expression and basal current are affected by heterotrimeric g-proteins

Abstract

Background: Basal activity of the inward rectifying potassium channel Kir2.4 is important for a variety of neuronal functions. Results: Pertussis toxin-sensitive Gα subunits reduce basal current and surface expression of Kir2.4, whereas Gβγ increases them. Conclusion: Heterotrimeric G-proteins regulate the surface expression of potassium channels. Significance: This study extends the role of G-protein subunits in modulating neuronal physiology by regulating the expression of channel proteins. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.